1. Use the electoral register

As well as getting a say in important decisions like whether to quit the EU, registering to vote allows companies to see the bigger picture. Allen said: “Behind the scenes, the credit rating companies are linking addresses. As long as you get on the electoral register as soon as possible, moving shouldn’t matter.”

2. Take out a free credit card

Lenders like credit cards because they can see how you handle debt. Luckily, simply having one in your name is enough. Allen said: “You can build up a very good credit rating if you have lots of credit cards and you don’t use them. Lenders don’t know what kind of credit card it is. Get a credit card that is free, put it in your sock drawer and don’t spend with it.”

3. Use other types of low-interest credit

Some mobile phone companies, such as O2, effectively give you a loan for your phone when you take out a contract. Allen explained: “If you go to O2 and get yourself a phone over 2 years, if you look at your credit rating you will see you have a loan each month. That will improve your credit rating.”

4. Avoid payday loans

Even if you pay it back immediately, payday loans are an absolute no no. Allen said: “Many lenders have a policy not to lend to somebody who has taken out a payday loan. Many high street banks won’t give out a mortgage if you have a payday loan in the last year.”